Archives for November 2019

These 3 Hotels Are The Dirtiest In The World

28 November, 2019 By Sahar Ajjab

Before setting foot at any hotel in the world, you must do some research before hand. It’s very important to look at the photos, check facilities and above all, reviews. Because sometime, you may end up paying a whole lot of cash, just to find yourself in an unpleasant situation. We brought to you this article to help you plan your next trip, especially when it comes to accommodation. Here are 3 of the dirtiest hotels in the world according to travelers on TripAdvisor.

The Grand Hotel, Kosovo

This hotel in Pristina, the capital of Kosovo used to be a landmark in the city. However, as the years passed by, it has become a nightmare to the guests staying there. According to lonely planet, this supposedly 5-star-hotel is a terrible place to stay. Apparently, this hotel is a graphic depiction of the song ‘‘Hotel California” which refers to a psychiatric hospital. The reviews claim that parts of the hotel are abandoned, the hallways are filled with pigeon feathers. In addition, rooms are missing some closet doors, and the bad smoke smell is just too much to handle.

The New World Hotel, NYC

Although the name may sound appealing, there is nothing ”good” about this hotel according to reviews. In fact, this hotel located in chinatown down in NYC, it has quite a reputation for the bad feedback it receives. Furthermore, the price is fairly cheap compared to other hotels in New York City (roughly £56 per night), people have reported bed bugs, paper-thin walls, windowless rooms and filthy shared bathrooms.

Most reviews include the words ”Horrible experience” and advice other travelers to look for alternatives.

Aspinals Hotel, Singapore

Singapore, one of the most visited places in recent years. This lively city offers so many advantages, including reasonable prices. However, beware not to let prices trick you into having a horrible stay. Aspinals hotel is ranked #307 in TripAdvisor’s list of 319 hotels in Singapore. If anything, this shows that you should probably avoid it. Comments on multiple review sites claimed cockroaches crawling on the bed and walls. In addition, sanitation wise, bathrooms apparently stink, no windows in the rooms and everything is dirty with mold on it. Ew!

Photos: The Grand Hotel, The New World Hotel, Aspinals Hotel, Pixabay

Traveling Makes You Happier Than Getting Married

21 November, 2019 By Sahar Ajjab

It’s official, this new study has just confirmed that traveling makes you happier than getting married. For those wanderlust souls out there, this revelation is not exactly news. However, if you are not used to traveling quite frequently, this article might come as quite a shock to you.

If you have been saving to buy a new car, or to celebrate a big wedding, you should take a look at the health benefits and happiness advantage of traveling.

Traveling Gives You Immediate Happiness

In a study done by Booking.com, they surveyed over 17.000 people, in over 17 countries. They explained that this provides a broader perspective, as well diverse results. The outcome of this study showed that almost all participants opted for traveling as the thing that makes them happier the most.

In addition, 77% confirmed that when feeling down, the first thing they do is plan a trip immediately.

Study Shows That Traveling Satisfies You More than Important Life Events

On the other hand, the respondents also chose traveling over other big life events. This includes getting married, having children, and getting promoted. Actually, 49% of the people who took part in the survey, confessed that they felt happier when traveling than they did on their wedding day.

Having a partner and being in love has its perks, but discovering the world is significantly better. In fact, 45% claimed that they experienced more endorphins rush when waiting for the plane then when getting engaged.

Planning A Vacation Improves Your Mood

Moreover, planning a vacation gives you an instant mood boost. 72% admitted that they feel a mood change with just the idea of taking a trip. Meanwhile, almost 80% agreed that they feel a lot happier with just looking at a map and choosing their next destination.

Buying Things Is Not As Joyful As Traveling

Furthermore, now that we have established that traveling is better than getting married, the study also focused on another aspect. Many people consider traveling as a luxurious activity. However, those who save up their money in order to buy a new house, a car etc.. are not going to be as joyful. 70% of respondents said that when they travel, they experience so many different feelings that buying things does not provide.

Photos: Unsplash

Tips For Your First Black Friday Shopping in America

14 November, 2019 By Sahar Ajjab

Black Friday is one the most awaited days of the whole year. Following thanksgiving, this day represents the inauguration of Christmas shopping. Although the idea of Black Friday started in the US, it has spread to the rest of the world over the years.

However, being part of this day creates a lot of pressure among shopping lovers. It has become associated with long queue, and even some fighting over the best bargain deals of the day. If it’s your first Black Friday in the US, here are some tips for you to survive this hectic shopping day.

Do Your Research

Before you even step foot in the mall, know your itinerary. Plan ahead what shops you want to buy, and what stores you want to go into. This will give you the advantage of navigating quickly through stores, especially if the mall is quite big. You will also spend less time in each store, and get to do more shopping.

Plan Your Budget And Stick To It

This is a very important tip. When we see items on a 50% sale, we tend to go crazy. However, be smart about it. Not al items that are on sale are worth buying. for example, think to yourself if you really need such a purchase. Be aware that Black Friday is at the end of the day, another form of marketing. They create need where there isn’t any. So, set your budget as well as your needs, and stick to them. You will see how easy it is when you have a targeted shopping list and a fixed budget.

Go Early To Avoid Waiting in Line

Here is a heads up for you : Most Americans choose to travel for Black Friday shopping spree. Therefore, they are super excited but yet, they don’t know the place that well. That’s why, they will choose to go as early as possible, and wait in line for the stores to open. To avoid waiting in line for hours (Yes, I do mean hours) just to enter, try to go in the early hours of morning. Some people will be there waiting from the night before. This is how crazy it gets.

Use Social Media/Apps

Americans are really keen on coupons and discounts. Most retail stores in the states offer online advantages for their consumers. If you are a ”newcomer” to this culture, then get ready. We advice you to check your favorite stores’ websites and social media accounts. Sometimes, they will be offering even more promotions and sales online. Also, make sure to download some handy apps such as PriceGrabber and Pricewatch, to compare prices and get special discounts.

Avoid Unsafe Situations

There is no need to explain what stressed, sleep deprived, and rushed people are capable of. Black Friday is one of those days where human nature takes control over common sense. So much traffic, everything is crowded, and people can get impatient and rude. To avoid hostility on your first shopping in the US, don’t clash with people. Do not fight for the last items, do not let go of your purchases, and keep your valuables close (that also includes kids.) On you way out, pay extra-attention in the parking lot, as rushed Black Friday shoppers aren’t the best stewards of pedestrian safety.

Photos: Pixabay, unsplash

Tips To Stay Safe When You Travel Alone

7 November, 2019 By Sahar Ajjab

Spending time with ourselves is super important. Traveling alone is an enriching experience that we all must try. Hence, to travel alone means to be extra-careful on your journey.

We have gathered some tips for you to stay safe when you travel alone. So go ahead, book that flight and enjoy spending time with yourself.

Trust Your Intuition

If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. Wether it’s a stroll in the park, or a taxi. Trust your intuition because senses sometimes perceive danger before we do. Although it’s important to try new things and be adventurous, don’t be reckless. You can say no to certain activities if you get a bad vibe from them. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that.

Learn About Your Destination

Read a bit about the city/country you will go to. This will help you get a sense of the culture and con games of the destination. when visiting somewhere, you must keep in mind that you need to adapt a bit to their traditions. If you are going to a conservative culture for example, make sure you don’t draw attention with your clothing and belongings. This will save you the trouble of looking like a tourist; and therefore, avoid schemes and overpriced things.

Minimize What You Carry With You

This is a very important point. Don’t walk at night alone flashing an expensive watch or phone. Once you get to know your destination a bit, keep in mind that looking rich might cost you a lot. Also don’t carry all your money at once, and you can ty to hide some inside your underwear if you want to have some extra cash.

Always Carry A Map

Carrying a map will not only help you not get lost, but to always know your exact location. If you ride in a cab, keep an eye on the road and check to see that you are going the right way. If you feel weird about something, claim it. People usually get scared when they see tourists being aware.

Don’t Be Too Friendly

I cannot stress this enough. Don’t be too friendly, and don’t mingle with random strangers. If you go out to a bar, always be careful where you put your drink, and stay conscious about the fact that you don’t know these people. Moreover, if anyone asks you to hold something for them, always say no. You can still be a kind, good person and still look after yourself.

Photos: Pixabay